Taylor Makes 'Tongue In Cheek' Jibe

Even Kevin Keegan learnt that, as far as the media are concerned, the Newcastle Utd defence will ALWAYS be an easy target.

And Steven Taylor defiantly stated the case for Newcastle's defence after another heroic display from the patched up rear-guard.

The 20-year-old left the field at the Commerzbank Arena last night bloodied and bruised, but insists there is no greater feeling than wearing that black and white shirt ... even though sometimes it hangs off his back.

Taylor: 'The defence has taken stick since I have been here, and it is nice to get some praise for a change.

'I have always said I love a challenge, and this is a challenge for me.

'I do not think there is a bigger challenge in the Premiership than being a Newcastle United defender.

'We get criticised by people, some of whom should know better, but we have just got to get on with it. We will take it on the chin.'